North Kerala is witnessing a high-energy political finale today as public campaigning for the second phase of the local body elections draws to a close at 6 PM. While seven districts from Thiruvananthapuram to Ernakulam cast their votes on Tuesday, the focus now shifts to Thrissur, Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod — all gearing up for polling the day after tomorrow.
In Kannur, the Mattannur Municipal Council stands as an exception, as no election will be held there this year. The council’s term remains valid until September 10, 2027, keeping it out of the electoral schedule.
The contest in North Kerala is vast and vibrant, with thousands of candidates vying for positions across various local bodies. A total of 28,288 candidates are battling it out in the panchayats, along with 3,742 contestants in block panchayats, 681 in district panchayats, 5,551 in municipalities, and 751 in municipal corporations. Underscoring the competitive spirit, Kannur has already seen 14 candidates win unopposed, while two candidates in Kasaragod have secured their seats without a contest.
The region’s voter roll is equally impressive, listing 1,53,78,937 electors, including 81,13,064 women. With polling day nearing, the distribution of election materials is scheduled for Wednesday, setting the stage for a smooth and well-organised second phase of voting.
As campaign vehicles roll through the final stretch and candidates make their last appeals, North Kerala prepares for a decisive electoral showdown that will shape grassroots governance for the next five years.
